UK Overseas Online Purchase Customs Process (Customer Guide)

When shopping from overseas online stores🌍, many customers often feel uncertain about the customs process🛃, taxes💰, and how to receive their packages smoothly📦. They search for clear, trustworthy information to understand what steps they need to take after placing an order abroad 🛒. This guide is designed to help you find exactly what you need—explaining in simple terms the step-by-step process for handling customs clearance, paying VAT and duties, and successfully receiving your overseas purchase in the UK. Whether you are a first-time cross-border shopper or want to avoid common pitfalls, this article provides straightforward answers to ease your concerns and ensure a smooth shopping experience✅.

1. Place an Order on an Overseas Online Store

• Complete your purchase and payment on the overseas online store.
• Make sure the seller provides full product details including value, origin, and description for customs declaration.

2. Shipping and Transportation

• The seller or courier ships the goods to the UK.
• During transit, the courier or postal service prepares customs declarations and collects relevant information.

3. Customs Declaration and Review

• All goods imported into the UK must be declared to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
• From 31 January 2025, goods from the EU require a Safety and Security declaration (Entry Summary Declaration).
• Customs reviews the declaration and may inspect goods to verify accuracy.

4. VAT and Duty Charges

• All overseas purchases are subject to 20% VAT regardless of value (no low-value exemption).
• Goods valued over £135 are subject to customs duty and import VAT.
• For goods under £135, VAT should be collected at the point of sale if the seller is VAT-registered in the UK.
• The courier or postal service usually collects any due VAT, duties, and clearance fees on behalf of HMRC.

5. How Customers Pay the Fees

• The courier or postal service will notify you of the customs duties, import VAT, and handling fees due.
• You can pay these fees online via the courier’s website, by phone, or in cash upon delivery, depending on the courier’s options.
• Common couriers like Royal Mail, DHL, UPS, and FedEx provide online payment portals for customs fees.
• If you do not pay the fees, the courier will not release your goods, and the package may be returned to the sender.
• Businesses or frequent importers can apply for a Duty Deferment Account with HMRC to pay monthly by direct debit instead of paying per shipment.
• Alternatively, payment can be made through the UK Customs Declaration Service using a Cash Account or General Guarantee Account if you have access.

6. Payment Notification

• The courier or postal service will send you a payment request with instructions on how to pay.
• Pay promptly to avoid delays in customs clearance and delivery.

7. Receive Your Goods

• Once payment is confirmed, the courier or postal service delivers your goods to you.
• If you refuse to pay, the goods may be returned to the sender or held until you clear customs yourself.

8. Additional Requirements

• Certain goods (such as plants, animals, and high-risk products) may require additional health and safety checks and certificates.
• Stay updated on any new customs rules or declarations that may apply to your goods.

Summary Table of UK Overseas Online Purchase Customs Process